DISCOVER

DERBY

Presented by the www.derbyshire-peakdistrict.co.uk website

DERBY MUSEUMS

DERBY CITY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

Houses the prestigious Joseph Wright collection of paintings, including 18th Century portraits, landscapes, industrial scenes and scientific equipment. A programme of special exhibitions support permanent displays relating to the city’s archaeology, history, wildlife and local regiments. The brand new Ceramics Gallery provides an additional attraction. The Bonnie Prince Charlie Room commemorates the important role played by Derby in the Jacobite Uprising of 1745. There are special geology and wildlife features, with a Time Tunnel, walk-in cave, hands-on exhibits and a series of authentic looking Derbyshire wildlife settings.

The museum's varied temporary exhibition programme, provides about 20 different shows annually, ensuring that patrons can plan regular visits and have something new to admire. A school service is supplied and holiday activities for all age groups are available. The museum shop sells a range of souvenirs, slides, postcards and books on local topics.

THE SILK MILL – DERBY'S MUSEUM OF INDUSTRY AND HISTORY

The first factory in England where all the processes were carried out under one roof and utilising one source of power and is now a World Heritage Site. The foundations and part of the tower from the 1717 mill, built by George Sorocold are still visible.

The building has been converted into a museum, with special emphasis on the development of Rolls-Royce aero engines and the railway industry. There are a number of other displays covering local industries, including mining, pottery and foundry work. The story of motive power in industry is covered in the Power Gallery. 

PICKFORD'S HOUSE MUSEUM

Housed in a handsome Grade I listed building, built in 1769 by Derby architect, Joseph Pickford for his own occupation. It was opened as a museum in 1988 and delightfully recreates a scene of Georgian domestic life with splendidly furnished rooms and fine costume displays.

On the ground floor you can see the dining room, drawing room and morning room laid out as they might have been in Pickford's day. There is a recreation of a Georgian bedroom and dressing on the first floor. On the top floor there is a servant's bedroom complete with straw mattress! The upper floors also display toys and toy theatres. Downstairs the kitchen and laundry re-constructions are particular visitor favourites. One of the cellars is equipped in the style of a 1940s air-raid shelter.

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QUICK CHECK

Derby City Museum and Art Gallery (01332 716659) Open: Monday 11-5pm, Tuesday to Saturday 10-5pm, Sunday and Bank Holidays 1-4pm. Free Admission. Closed during Christmas and New Year break.

The Silk Mill – Derby’s Museum of Industry and History (01332 255308) Open: Monday 11-5pm, Tuesday to Saturday 10-5pm, Sunday and Bank Holidays 1-4pm. Free Admission. Closed during Christmas and New Year break.

Pickford’s House Museum (01332 255363) Open: Monday 11-5pm, Tuesday to Saturday 10-5pm, Sunday and Bank Holidays 1-4pm. Free Admission. Closed during Christmas and New Year break.

WELCOME TO DERBY

A city of considerable character, surrounded by attractive countryside. With the Peak District National Park, the second most visited National Park in the world, only a few miles to the north and the National Forest a short distance away to the south.

Located near the centre of the country, Derby has excellent communications and is well served by road, rail and air. The city lies at the junction of the main A6, A38 and A52 roads and junction 25 of the M1 is 15 minutes drive away. East Midlands Airport is an easy 12 miles drive to the south east of Derby.

DISCOVER DERBY

This website is not just aimed at the visitor, but should also be of interest to local people. So be ready to:

     * Explore the city with the illustrated heritage trails.

     * Enjoy the neighbouring countryside with the detailed instructions and route maps.

     * Discover fascinating facts about the history of the city.

DERBY'S HISTORY

On the 4 December 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Jacobite army arrived in Derby, where an important decision in British history was made. On the previous day, the prince had been advised by his generals to withdraw and return to Scotland.

They were not happy being so far into enemy territory without the  support of the English Jacobites, and the French.

THE DISCOVER DERBYSHIRE AND THE PEAK DISTRICT GUIDE

Provides a wide range of features  with heritage trails and detailed countryside walks, through some of the most scenically attractive countryside in the UK.

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